Minor praevia = Grade 1 and 2Major praevia = Grade 3 and 4

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Name 5 complications/risks of placenta praevia to the mother

Death - 20% of maternal deaths in developing worldPPHAnaesthetic and surgical complications (increased C/S rate)Post-partum sepsisPlacenta accreta more likely in next pregnancy10% recurrence risk in next pregnancy

What are the two principles of management for placenta praevia? What are the indications to use one over the other and why?

Expectant management - indicated if bleeding is controlled and mother and foetus are stable. Aim is to wait until foetus is term before delivery at 37-38 weeks. Admit to hospital and monitor until asymptomatic. Consider tocolytics, corticosteroids, mag sulf if preterm. Avoid sexual intercourse. Follow up U/S at 32-34 weeks. Admit to hospital at 34 weeks if a major (partial or complete) placenta praevia.

What is a vasa praevia? Who is more at risk from a vasa praevia - the mother or fetus? How is the diagnosis made antenatally? What two medical procedures can cause fetal death from vasa praevia? What is the management of it (briefly)?